The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to newly promoted Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs), cautioning them against indiscipline, abuse of office, corruption, and dereliction of duty.
Disu delivered the warning on Monday during a decoration ceremony held in Abuja, where senior officers who were recently elevated in rank were formally adorned with their new insignia. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in their careers, but the police chief made it clear that the new ranks come with heightened responsibilities and expectations.
Addressing the officers, the IGP stressed that their promotion signals a transition from routine policing duties to strategic leadership roles within the Nigeria Police Force. He noted that their conduct going forward would not only shape their personal reputations but also influence the overall image and effectiveness of the institution.
“From this moment, you are no longer just senior officers; you are strategic leaders of the Nigeria Police Force,” Disu said. “You are expected to lead from the front. Your actions, decisions, and personal conduct must reflect discipline, integrity, and absolute respect for the rule of law.”
He emphasized the need for zero tolerance toward misconduct within their commands, warning that any form of indiscipline, abuse of office, corruption, or negligence would not be condoned under his leadership. According to him, the era of lax accountability in the police hierarchy must give way to a system driven by professionalism and strict adherence to ethical standards.
The IGP further charged the officers to take full responsibility for the actions and behavior of personnel under their supervision. He underscored the importance of effective oversight, noting that poor supervision often creates room for misconduct, while strong leadership fosters discipline and operational excellence.
“You must know what is happening within your commands at all times,” he stated. “Lax supervision breeds misconduct; strong leadership enforces standards. I will hold you accountable for both operational outcomes and the behaviour of officers under your authority.”
Disu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-oriented policing, describing it as a central pillar of modern law enforcement in Nigeria. He urged the newly promoted officers to ensure that policing within their jurisdictions reflects professionalism, respect for human rights, and responsiveness to the needs of the public.
He noted that officers must become more visible and approachable, building trust with communities rather than alienating them. According to him, public confidence is essential for effective policing, particularly in areas such as intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and enforcement operations.
“We must build trust deliberately and consistently,” he said. “Intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and effective law enforcement are all strengthened when the public have confidence in us.”
The police boss further encouraged the senior officers to champion reforms within their respective commands. He called on them to embrace innovation, improve operational efficiency, and eliminate outdated practices that are inconsistent with modern policing standards.
Disu stressed that the Nigeria Police Force must evolve to meet contemporary security challenges, adding that leadership at all levels plays a critical role in driving this transformation. He urged the officers to adopt forward-thinking approaches and leverage available resources to enhance service delivery.
Highlighting the basis for the recent promotions, the IGP explained that the process was deliberate and merit-based, aimed at strengthening professionalism, competence, and integrity within the force. He commended the officers for their years of dedicated service and the achievements that earned them elevation to higher ranks.
However, he cautioned that promotion should not be viewed merely as a reward, but as a call to greater service and accountability. According to him, the expectations placed on them would be significantly higher, and they must rise to the challenge.
“The promotion you have received is not just a reward; it is a responsibility,” Disu added. “You have earned it through years of service and demonstrated ability, and now you must justify the confidence reposed in you.”
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for commitment, discipline, and professionalism among the newly promoted officers, as the Nigeria Police Force continues its efforts to rebuild public trust and enhance national security.
